Hotel Zed founder makes history as second woman to chair national hotel group
Mandy Farmer, the CEO and founder of Accent Inns and Hotel Zed, has been appointed chair of the Hotel Association of Canada, becoming just the second woman in the organization’s history to hold the role.
The national hotel industry group announced the appointment this week, saying Farmer will serve as chair through its 2027 annual general meeting.
Farmer has been on the association’s board since 2021 and served as vice-chair since 2024. HAC president and CEO Beth McMahon called her a respected hotelier and entrepreneur known for bringing energy, creativity, and collaboration to the industry.
Farmer also received praise from her team at Hotel Zed, which celebrated the appointment by highlighting her values-driven leadership and commitment to community. The B.C.-owned and operated hotel brand says Farmer’s focus on buying Canadian and working with local makers and businesses is at the heart of its identity.
Farmer takes over from Tony Cohen, president of Crescent Hotels and Resorts Canada, who moves into the role of past chair. Alnoor Gulamani, CEO of Bayview Group of Companies, has been named vice-chair.
by Erin Haluschak